Rewriting Destiny: an Intense Exploration of Female Identity and Struggles

Read Time:2 Minute, 24 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Clock
–

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Alexis Jacknow
Writer(s): Alexis Jacknow
Cast: Dianna Agron, Melora Hardin, Jay Ali, Saul Rubinek
Where To Watch: world premiere, held at the 2023 Overlook Film Festival, will debut exclusively on Hulu on April 28, 2023, and on Disney+ internationally at a later date.

RAVING REVIEW: CLOCK, a genuinely tense film directed by Alexis Jacknow, takes us on an emotional rollercoaster as we follow Ella, played by Dianna Agron, a woman who participates in a clinical trial to tackle her seemingly malfunctioning biological clock and faces relentless pressure from friends, family, and society to become a mother. The intensity, sometimes reminiscent of body horror, is combined with a powerful narrative that keeps viewers engaged—feeling stress, fear, anger, and anticipation.

The narrative is filled with contrasting moments, such as a mother's declaration that children are life's ultimate joy, immediately contrasted with a child in danger. While Ella sees her “issue” as a gift, maintaining that belief is increasingly difficult while everyone around her pressures her. Her husband is eager to have children, and her father hopes grandchildren will continue the family's bloodline. Ella's faith adds the weight of different traditions, trauma, and constant guilt, making her feel that choosing not to have children amplifies her guilt.

CLOCK illustrates the transformation of a once-happy individual while losing her identity to the expectations of those around her. Dr. Elizabeth Simmons, played by Melora Harden, leads Ella's journey and is sometimes a sympathetic character with internal conflicts while balancing her struggles. She plays two roles within herself, battling one belief and trying to tackle another.

The film paints a bleak picture of a woman's downfall as she grapples with the pressures around her. She explores the all too real fear of childbirth and her ingrained misogyny, culminating in a battle that makes her question her reality. The movie highlights the complexities of womanhood in a world filled with inequality, showcasing Jacknow's ability to strike a balance between different tones and deliver a captivating narrative.

CLOCK appeals to a broad audience by tackling nuanced themes and offering an engaging narrative many can connect with. With its raw and sincere portrayal of the many aspects of womanhood, CLOCK is a must-watch for anyone looking for a film that will question motherhood.

For more reviews and my YouTube channel, please visit linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[film courtesy of HULU/20TH DIGITAL STUDIO]